The world of James Bond, considered for a life well lived

Wolfschmidt Vodka (Moonraker)

Wolfschmidt is a multi-grain vodka, bottled at 40% ABV and made in the United States today. Ian Fleming’s Bond drinks it once, at the dinner at Blades in Moonraker, which makes it one of the quieter vodkas in his world.

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Most vodkas in Bond’s orbit arrive with a story attached. Wolfschmidt arrives with a single line: in the novel Moonraker, Bond drinks it at the dinner at Blades. That is the whole of its appearance, and it is why Wolfschmidt vodka is worth knowing about. It is a plain, honest bottle rather than a brand that trades on the connection.

In the books

Our catalogue notes record Bond drinking Wolfschmidt on that one occasion in Moonraker, over dinner at Blades. It is a passing mention rather than a signature drink, so we describe it as a believed match for the bottle sold today, not a certainty. Browse the wider Bond world for the drinks he returned to more often.

Owning it now

The brand traces its roots to 1847, and one retailer notes it is now made in the United States by James B. Beam Distilling Co., part of Suntory Global Spirits. It is a multi-grain vodka at 40% ABV. Retailers and Difford’s Guide describe it as slightly sweet and very clean, with a silky texture, black pepper and the faintest mint and aniseed. We would keep it for a Martini or a cold glass over ice; the pepper stands up to vermouth.

It is sold in sizes from 200ml to 1.75L. For a vodka with a firmer screen connection, see Smirnoff No. 21 Vodka, an alternative here rather than the same bottle. More in Food & Drink.

Specifications

Maker Wolfschmidt (James B. Beam Distilling Co., part of Suntory Global Spirits)
Style Multi-grain vodka, made in the United States
Strength 40% ABV (80 proof)
Sizes 200ml, 375ml and 1.75L seen at retailers
Tasting notes Slightly sweet, clean, silky; black pepper, faint mint and aniseed

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